Normal Operation

The tie rods connect the EPAS gear to the wheel knuckles. There should be very little to no vertical or lateral movement in the inner and outer tie rod studs or sockets. Some rotational movement is acceptable.

This test generates a RVC for a new component when directed to do so from the pinpoint test. A RVC is required to document billing for payment.

1. J1: CHECK THE OUTER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT 
   • With the transmission in NEUTRAL, position the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Jacking And Lifting .
     NOTE: Due to the design of the EPAS gear, the rack piston on the RH side may exhibit a small amount of up and down movement when inspecting the tie rods for movement. This is a normal condition that could be misdiagnosed as movement in the inner tie-rod socket. Make sure that the movement is contained in the tie-rod ball stud/socket before installing a new tie rod.
   • Using hand force only, check the outer tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs/sockets.
   • Are the outer tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement? 

     Yes	No
     GO to  J2.	INSTALL a new Outer tie rod(s). REFER to Steering System or Power Steering System . If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.

2. J2: CHECK THE INNER TIE RODS FOR MOVEMENT 
   • Remove the steering gear bellows boots. Refer to Inner Tie Rod Removal and Installation in Steering System or Power Steering System .
     NOTE: When installing new bellows boots and clamps, apply new lubricant as instructed to prevent water contamination or damage may result to the EPAS gear. For complete information refer to the Tie Rod Removal and Installation process in Power Steering System .
     NOTE: Due to the design of the EPAS gear, the rack piston on the RH side may exhibit a small amount of up and down movement when inspecting the tie rods for movement. This is a normal condition that could be misdiagnosed as movement in the inner tie-rod socket. Make sure that the movement is contained in the tie-rod ball stud/socket before installing a new tie rod.
     • Using hand force only, check the inner tie rods for vertical and lateral movement in the tie-rod ball studs/sockets.
     • Are the inner tie rods free from any vertical and/or lateral movement? 

       Yes	No
       The condition may be caused by wheel/tire runout. REFER to Diagnosis and Testing - Wheels and Tires in Wheels And Tires System . If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.	INSTALL a new Inner tie rod(s). REFER to Power Steering System . If this is a Ford paid repair, INCLUDE the RVC on the warranty claim form.